Hans Fitzi eulogy Hans Fitzi 97 years youngFather, Architect , Deer farmer, Founder Swiss Kiwi Yodel group, Rotarian, Member Rotary Club of Newmarket & much more. For those of us who had the privilege of knowing Hans he will be remembered as a man for all seasons. I was fortunate to have seen many facets of his extraordinary life. My earliest memory is Sharon and I being at one of his famous club Christmas parties on his deer farm on the Kaipara where we were greeted off the party bus by his swiss kiwi yodellers , the Christmas gifting game of tombola, mulled wine….swiss cheeses… then there was his big 70th? Birthday where I learnt about his pioneering deer farming exploits along with Sir Tim Wallis... many committee meetings in his lovely mid century style modernist home with the powerful faceted timber ceiling overlooking Orakei basin. Both Lia and Hans were the ultimate hosts, much laughter, fellowship, fine food and drink…which reminds me of his chestnut beer venture with John Phillis Hans was the consummate networker too and loved Chinese cuisine. Sharon and I last had the pleasure of being guests at a dinner at Grand Harbour along with the then swiss consul Peter Deutschle ( a client of mine for their home in Marine Parade) and Ross Craig so Hans could introduce us to a young swiss musical prodigy Simone Roggen who later joined RCoN A man for all seasons indeed. Rest in peace. Big Wig Ed. |
I love the Yeat’s line “The best lack all conviction, while the worst are full of passionate intensity”.
